Why can periods cause headaches?
The menstrual cycle is a veritable hormonal orchestra. Just before or during menstruation, the body undergoes abrupt fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone. This imbalance can trigger a neurological reaction, particularly in sensitive individuals: this is what is known as a menstrual headache or hormonal migraine .
These headaches can be:
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light, with a feeling of tension or pressure
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or on the contrary very intense, in the form of migraines localized on one side only, accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light or noise.
Factors that worsen menstrual headaches
Several factors can intensify or trigger these pains during menstruation:
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Stress and anxiety
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Lack of sleep
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An unbalanced diet (excess sugar, caffeine, alcohol…)
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Dehydration
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A magnesium deficiency
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Abruptly stopping the contraceptive pill or a hormonal change
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Prolonged exposure to screens (blue light + eye strain)
Our natural tips for relieving menstrual headaches
Focus on magnesium and diet
Magnesium is the ultimate ally against migraines. It helps regulate muscle contractions and soothe the nerves.
→ It can be found in: almonds, spinach, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, legumes…
You can also consider a course of marine magnesium or magnesium glycerophosphate before and during your period.
Drink plenty of water
Dehydration is one of the primary triggers of headaches. During menstruation, the body loses more fluids than usual.
→ Tip: add a pinch of pink salt or a little lemon juice for better water retention.
Review your sleep hygiene
Quality sleep is essential to balance the neurotransmitters responsible for pain.
→ Try to go to bed at a fixed time, turn off screens at least 1 hour before, and create a calm and dim atmosphere in your room.
Practice relaxation and gentle yoga
Deep breathing, heart coherence, guided meditation, or yoga focused on stretching the back and neck can greatly relieve physical tension associated with migraines.
→ Bonus: Gentle inverted postures or twists can stimulate circulation and promote calmness.
Apply cold or heat
Some people find relief with an ice pack placed on their forehead or neck, while others prefer a hot water bottle on their trapezius muscles. Try what works best for you!
Choose comfortable menstrual products
Optimal comfort during menstruation also helps to reduce physical and emotional tension.
This is where period panties make all the difference: no chafing, no feeling of dampness, no leak anxiety. They help you experience your period with more peace of mind… and less discomfort.
Also read: How to properly use your period underwear?
When should you consult a healthcare professional?
If your headaches are very intense, last more than 72 hours, are accompanied by vomiting or vision problems, or become more frequent with each cycle: talk to your doctor or a gynecologist .
A severe menstrual migraine may require specific treatment, sometimes based on anti-inflammatories, suitable contraceptives or occasional hormonal treatments.
Headaches related to menstruation are not inevitable. By understanding their hormonal origin and implementing a few simple and natural measures, it is entirely possible to prevent and effectively relieve them .
Because relieving period discomfort also starts with feeling good in your own skin, discover our ultra-comfortable period panties in our shop and give your cycle the gentleness it deserves.